WASHINGTON, Feb. 15—International Franchise Association President & CEO Robert Cresanti released the statement below following Andy Puzder’s decision to withdraw as the nominee for Secretary of Department of Labor:

“Andy Puzder always saw the bigger picture, so his decision to withdraw is just another example of his character as someone willing to put himself aside on behalf of the greater good. From his humble beginnings, Andy worked to make a difference and that’s precisely why he would’ve been a great addition to President Trump’s Administration. His fair and measured approach to managing the Labor Department would’ve reversed the course of the job-killing regulations implemented over the last eight years, which have paralyzed small businesses. Regardless of where he is, Andy will continue his dedicated pursuit towards advancing growth for all workers as the leader of one of America’s great franchises and everything this business model represents.”

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About the International Franchise Association
Celebrating 56 years of excellence, education and advocacy, the International Franchise Association is the world's oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide. IFA works through its government relations and public policy, media relations and educational programs to protect, enhance and promote franchising and the more than 733,000 franchise establishments that support nearly 7.6 million direct jobs, $674.3 billion of economic output for the U.S. economy and 2.5 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). IFA members include franchise companies in over 300 different business format categories, individual franchisees and companies that support the industry in marketing, law, technology and business development.